Arkansas House speaker eyeing 2014 governor's race

Wrapping up this year's legislative session, Carter said he's had discussions about running for governor but said he's not ready to make a decision about the race.

Associated Press

House Speaker Davy Carter said Tuesday he's thinking about running for governor next year, but the Republican lawmaker said he needs some time before deciding whether to seek the state's top office.

Wrapping up this year's legislative session, Carter said he's had discussions about running for governor but said he's not ready to make a decision about the race.

"I'd be disingenuous if I told you I hadn't had the thought, but I've still got a long ways to go home and get my head clear," Carter, R-Cabot, told reporters after lawmakers recessed this year's session. "I need get home and get out of the marble walls here and get back to reality and go from there."

Carter later declined to say with whom he's discussed a potential run, and said he doesn't have a timeline for making a decision.

Carter was elected speaker of the House last year after Republicans won control of the House and Senate in the November election.

Former U.S. Rep. Asa Hutchinson and Little Rock businessman Curtis Coleman are seeking the GOP gubernatorial nomination. Former Lt. Gov. Bill Halter and former U.S. Rep. Mike Ross are seeking the Democratic nomination.

Democratic Gov. Mike Beebe is term-limited and can't run for re-election.